125.351/9–2549: Telegram
The Consul at Dairen (Paddock) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 26—10:21 p. m.]
301. As result Moscow’s 2392, September 23, I today sent letter to Chief of Civil Administration; following is summary.
Ambassador Kirk in personal call September 10 informed Vishinski of Consulate’s closing and requested Soviets facilitate departure of staff and give preference as to transport for their departure—Soviet ship, foreign freighter under Soviet charter, unarmed American naval vessel.
Soviet note of September 22 stated appropriate instructions sent Soviet Military Command. Since no preference re transport given in note, I assume it immaterial to Soviets which type transport used. Thus Civil Administration requested either itself arrange passage for Consulate staff on one of foreign freighters now here or allow me contact captains personally; if Soviet ship leaving earlier, it is satisfactory with me go that route.
Ambassador pointed out to Vishinski that Gleysteen and I traveling as couriers and official mail thus exempt from examination; also our personal baggage should be exempt.
[Page 919]Chao Shou-yu to go with me; question of release and departure from Dairen of Chao Yi-hsien is being taken up by Moscow Embassy.
Reply by letter or interview requested. End of summary.
Department: In event we in fact free go next few days, Department’s statements re last two paragraphs Contel 296, September 21 requested urgently.
Sent Department, Department pass Moscow 161.